Bill to limit Indiana environmental rules dies

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A state senator has killed legislation that would bar Indiana environmental regulators from creating standards harsher than federal rules.

Senate Environmental Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Charbonneau held the bill during the committee’s last meeting of this year’s legislative session Monday. The House earlier passed the bill 68-28.

Bill sponsor state Rep. David Wolkins of Winona Lake says the bill would have kept the state from imposing unnecessary and expensive regulations on industries. Opponents say it would have tied regulators’ hands and blocked them from creating Indiana-specific requirements.

Wolkins says he’s been trying to pass the legislation for about two decades. The previous Senate committee chairwoman refused to review the bill and later called it “bad public policy.”

Trending Now on WISHTV.com

WISH-TV Weather App

Download the WISH-TV Weather App for fast, accurate local weather at your fingertips. With its personal alert notifications, you’ll know when bad weather is heading your way and when to take cover. The WISH-TV Weather App utilizes the most advanced radar maps and digital technology available. More Info »